Prayagraj, which is religiously and culturally important, has been in the news recently due to reports of high levels of fecal bacteria in Sangam water. Reports by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) have taken up the issue seriously threatening the health of local residents and devotees. In this article, we will discuss the quality of Sangam water, the health impact of fecal bacteria in Sangam water, causes of pollution and government response.
Importance of fecal bacteria
Fecal bacteria, especially fecal coliform bacteria, are an important indicator of water quality.
Indication of water quality: These bacteria come into the water due to the mixing of human or animal feces and help measure the presence of pathogenic bacteria in the water.
Health impact : High levels of fecal bacteria can lead to the spread of waterborne diseases, such as typhoid, gastroenteritis and diarrhea.
Water quality in Prayagraj
According to a recent report by the CPCB, the levels of fecal bacteria in the confluence water of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers in Prayagraj are several times higher than the standard.
Report findings: The report states that the amount of fecal bacteria in the confluence water is so high that it can pose a serious threat to the health of local residents and devotees.
Government assurances: UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has described the water quality as safe, but the NGT has raised concerns.
Health impact of fecal bacteria in Sangam water
High levels of fecal bacteria can lead to several health problems.
Waterborne diseases: Experts say that using contaminated water can lead to the spread of typhoid, diarrhea, and other waterborne diseases.
Health of local residents: Local residents using Sangam water may have a negative impact on their health, affecting their lifestyle.
Causes of pollution
There are several reasons for the pollution of Sangam water in Prayagraj .
Sewage leakage: Due to lack of proper sewage managemnt in the city, sewage is directly falling into the rivers, causing deterioration in water quality .
Animal waste: Animal waste in local areas is also mixing with water and causing pollution.
Status of water treatment plants: The status of water treatment plants (STPs) and their effectiveness have also been questioned. Many plants lack capacity and have technical problems.
Government response on fecal bacteria in Sangam water
The government has assured to take steps to improve water quality .
NGT recommendations: The NGT has stressed the need for strict action against water pollution and directed the government to take concrete steps to improve water quality.
Cleanliness Drive : The government has planned cleanliness drives for cleaning the Sangam water which will also involve local residents.
FAQs related to Fecal Bacteria
Q1: What are fecal bacteria ?
A: Fecal bacteria are caused by the mixing of human or animal feces in water and indicate the water quality.
Q2: What is the condition of water quality in Prayagraj?
A: The water quality in Prayagraj is many times more polluted than the standard, posing a serious threat to health.
Q3: What health problems can high fecal bacteria levels cause ?
A: High levels of fecal bacteria can cause typhoid, diarrhea, and other waterborne diseases.
Conclusion
Collective efforts are needed to improve the quality of Sangam water in Prayagraj.
Citizen awareness: It is necessary to make citizens aware of water quality and involve them in cleanliness drives.
Government action: The government should take concrete steps to improve the quality of Sangam water and protect the health of local residents.
Thus, it is necessary to take the problem of high levels of fecal bacteria in Sangam water in Prayagraj seriously. It is not only a threat to the health of local residents, but it is also important from religious and cultural point of view. Everyone has to come together to find a solution to this problem so that the purity and safety of Sangam water can be ensured.
Also read: Sangam City Prayagraj & History, Significance, and Kumbh Mela
